Summary of HR 6284: Strengthening Loan Forgiveness for Public Service Workers Act

Purpose and Intent

The Strengthening Loan Forgiveness for Public Service Workers Act (HR 6284) aims to amend the Higher Education Act of 1965 to enhance the existing Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) program. The bill seeks to provide a structured percentage of student loan forgiveness for individuals employed in public service roles, thereby incentivizing careers in public service and alleviating the financial burden of student loans for these workers.

Key Provisions

The bill introduces several significant changes to the PSLF program:

1. Loan Forgiveness Structure:

   • The bill establishes a tiered loan forgiveness system based on the number of monthly payments made by the borrower while employed in a public service job.
   • Forgiveness Percentages:
     • After 24 payments: 15% of the total loan amount forgiven.
     • After 48 payments: An additional 15% forgiven (totaling 30%).
     • After 72 payments: An additional 15% forgiven (totaling 45%).
     • After 96 payments: An additional 15% forgiven (totaling 60%).
     • After 120 payments: The remaining balance of the loan is canceled.

2. Employment Certification:

   • The Secretary of Education will certify a borrower’s employment for loan cancellation purposes. This can be done automatically if the Secretary can confirm employment without additional information.
   • If not, borrowers will need to submit an employment certification form that includes self-certification and employer verification.

3. Interest Cancellation:

   • If any portion of a loan is canceled, the entire amount of interest accrued during that year will also be canceled.

4. Deferment During Processing:

   • Loans will be placed in deferment while the Secretary processes the loan cancellation.

Affected Parties

This legislation primarily affects:
- Public Service Workers: Individuals employed in government, non-profit organizations, and other public service roles who hold eligible Federal Direct Loans.
- Borrowers of New Loans: The provisions apply to loans made after the enactment of this bill, thereby impacting future borrowers in public service.

Procedural Aspects

• Introduced: November 21, 2025
• Current Status: The bill has been introduced in the House and referred to the Committee on Education and Workforce for further consideration.

Conclusion

HR 6284 represents a significant step towards improving the financial landscape for public service workers by providing a clear path to loan forgiveness. By incentivizing public service careers, the bill aims to support individuals dedicated to serving their communities while addressing the challenges posed by student loan debt.